Listen to this story Members can listen to an AI-generated audio version of this article. 1.0x Audio narration uses an AI-generated voice. 0:00 0:00 Become a member to listen to this article Subscribe The Conservatives’ wraparound childcare programme underspent by almost a fifth, with affordability challenges and a lack of demand from parents hitting school take-up. The wraparound childcare programme was announced in the 2023 spring budget by Rishi Sunak’s government. It aimed for all primary-aged children to be given access to childcare between 8am and 6pm during term time by September 2026, in a bid to help parents return to work. Become a member for unlimited access to Schools Week subscribe Our members enjoy early access to exclusive content and in-depth articles before anyone else. Get expert journalism, experience fewer ads, and unlock a growing range of member benefits.